The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, positioned as Asia’s leading innovation conclave, is set to transform the global perception of Indian deep tech and space industry, with Karnataka’s Information Technology and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge declaring a bold vision for Bengaluru’s leadership in future-focused technologies and global entrepreneurship platforms.
Summit Overview and Space Industry Emphasis
Held from November 18-20 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), the 28th edition of the summit adopts the theme “Futurise,” underscoring the drive to define, scale, and commercialize next-generation technologies, including space tech, artificial intelligence, and deep tech. More than 10,000 entrepreneurs, 1,200+ exhibitors, 20,000 delegates, 50,000 visitors, and 500 speakers are expected, representing over 60 countries—resulting in the summit’s largest and most internationally networked edition so far.
Space industry advancements occupy a pivotal track this year. Dedicated clusters and conference sessions will focus on breakthroughs in orbital launch, satellite communications, new propulsion systems, and India’s expanding role in space exploration and commercialization. This reflects Karnataka’s established status as the country’s top technology and aerospace hub, housing premier defense and public sector units alongside a growing private-space ecosystem.
Minister Priyank Kharge’s Vision and Quotes
Minister Kharge, addressing the press and policy sessions, emphasized the government’s proactive agenda: “What the department intends to do at the summit is not only showcase policy and schemes, but accelerate innovation in deep tech and AI. The Government of Karnataka is aggressive in positioning ourselves as a deep tech capital across verticals”.
Specifically, Kharge outlined measures to accelerate space-tech and deep tech entrepreneurship. “Such initiatives will not only demonstrate collective confidence in India’s innovation potential, but also inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to build world-class solutions from Bengaluru for the world,” Kharge said, urging entrepreneurs to rise to the occasion at the Future Makers’ Conclave, a dedicated flagship forum at the heart of BTS 2025. “Your presence and mentorship can make a tangible difference to the next generation of entrepreneurs in AI and DeepTech innovation,” he told venture capitalists and industry leaders, positioning Karnataka as “uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of technology, innovation, and investment”.
Strategic Funding, Startups, and Global Collaboration
A highlight announcement at the summit is the launch of a Rs 150 crore “Deep Tech Elevate Fund” to catalyze high-impact startups, with an additional Rs 80 crore under the “Elevate Beyond Bengaluru” scheme—part of a broader Rs 600 crore startup budget. Kharge confirmed that the government is also inviting private capital and VC participation for co-investment models, potentially scaling available funding based on ecosystem response. “The extent of funding for startups would be revised upwards in the coming years based on the response,” he confirmed, pointing to a dynamic, investor-driven approach.
Global engagement is a core focus, with the summit actively encouraging local firms to reach international markets and facilitating multilateral partnerships, B2B matchmaking, and investor roundtables. The “Future Makers’ Conclave” in particular is designed to deliver tangible value for startups, early-stage founders, and established entrepreneurs looking to scale up.
Space, Deep Tech, and the Karnataka Story
The space technology agenda of BTS 2025 aligns with Bengaluru’s legacy as India’s R&D and innovation capital. Minister Kharge echoed this sentiment: “Bengaluru and Karnataka are uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of tech, innovation, and investment.” He highlighted the state’s ecosystem strengths, including public and private sector synergies, talent pool depth, and the leadership role of Karnataka in national missions for artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing, and quantum technology.
Among the dedicated space technology tracks, the summit features sessions on orbital launch, satellite platforms, emerging markets in global satellite broadband, cross-border technology partnerships, and startup success stories in NewSpace. Special focus is given to building export-oriented space and deep-tech SMEs, seizing the momentum of India’s new commercial space policy, and showcasing homegrown innovations alongside international projects.
Platform for Startups and Industry Leaders
BTS 2025’s exhibition floor is structured to convert ideas into deals and global collaborations. Startups will pitch investors, product demos will lead to distribution agreements, and leading Indian space and tech companies will display new offerings to international buyers. Curated networking opportunities, roundtable sessions, and investor engagements will create unique opportunities for early-stage innovators and established firms alike.
Investor participation is central to the summit’s ethos. Kharge urged, “Your presence and mentorship can make a tangible difference to the next generation of entrepreneurs in AI and DeepTech innovation”. He also acknowledged the “collective confidence in India’s innovation potential”, stating that “the Bengaluru Tech Summit will serve as a high-energy platform bringing together founders, investors, and innovators who will shape the next wave of entrepreneurship”.
Looking Ahead: Karnataka as a Global Tech Capital
The government’s plans extend beyond the summit to a decade-long vision to solidify Karnataka’s global leadership across deep tech, AI, and space. “Deep tech would be given priority by the IT/BT department over the course of the next decade,” Kharge declared, underscoring that policies will be increasingly fine-tuned for vertical integration in strategic sectors.
Industry, academia, and global partners are seen as critical players in sustaining the state’s growth. The summit will act as a bellwether for policy direction, funding models, and collective industry momentum toward establishing not just Bengaluru but Karnataka as an archetype for innovation-driven prosperity—with the space sector holding a position of strategic priority.
Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025 is not only a showcase—it is an accelerant for India’s ambitions in deep tech and space. With strong government commitment, pioneering funding models, and a bold global agenda, the summit signals a major leap toward realizing Karnataka’s and India’s vision of becoming a global powerhouse in future technologies. As Minister Priyank Kharge’s call to action rings out, the world watches—and the next wave of innovation is poised to rise from Bengaluru.
